Tesla S Quick Guide for owners tesla-model-s-quick-guide-for-owners

A QUICK GUIDE
FOR OWNERS

INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR MODEL S IS AVAILABLE AT:

www.teslamotors.com/mytesla

To contact Tesla call 1-877-79TESLA (1-877-798-3752)

For Roadside Assistance call 1-866-99TESLA (1-866-998-3752)

This document describes the features available at time of printing for:

MODEL S SOFTWARE: v4.0

NOTE: Features released in subsequent versions of software are not described in this document. However, you can display information about the newest
features by viewing the Release Notes on the ModelS touchscreen. These Release Notes are displayed on the touchscreen after a software update, and
can be displayed at any time by touching the Tesla T at the top center of the touchscreen, and then touching the Release Notes link (see page 29). If
information provided in this document conflicts with information in the Release Notes, the Release Notes take precedence.

© 2012 TESLA MOTORS, INC. All rights reserved.

All information in this document and all MODEL S

be modified, reproduced or copied, in whole or in part, without the prior written permission of Tesla Motors, Inc. and its licensors. Additional information is available upon request.

®

TESLA MOTORS

of Tesla Motors, Inc. in the United States and other countries. HOMELINK® and the HOMELINK® house icon are registered trademarks of Johnson Controls, Inc. All other trademarks

contained in this document are the property of their respective owners and their use herein does not imply sponsorship or endorsement of their products or services. The

unauthorized use of any trademark displayed in this document or on the vehicle is strictly prohibited.

, TESLA ROADSTER®, ®, ®, ®, and MODEL S® are registered trademarks of Tesla Motors, Inc. in the United States. TESLA™ is a trademark

®

software is subject to copyright and other intellectual property rights of Tesla Motors, Inc. and its licensors. This material may not

CONTENTS

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

TO GET IN AND DRIVE ...................................................................................2

OPENING DOORS ................................................................................................................. 2

USING YOUR KEY .................................................................................................................2

STARTING AND DRIVING.................................................................................................. 3

PARKING AND POWER OFF ........................................................................................... 3

WALK-AWAY AND DRIVE-AWAY LOCKING ............................................................ 3

INSTRUMENT PANEL ..................................................................................... 4

INSTRUMENT PANEL AT A GLANCE .......................................................................... 4

INDICATOR LIGHTS .............................................................................................................. 5

TOUCHSCREEN .................................................................................................6

OVERVIEW ...............................................................................................................................6

CLIMATE CONTROLS ...........................................................................................................7

TOUCHSCREEN > CONTROLS ....................................................................................... 8

TOUCHSCREEN > CONTROLS > SETTINGS ........................................................... 9

DOORS, LOCKS, AND WINDOWS ............................................................10

DOOR AND TRUNK CONTROLS ..................................................................................10

WINDOW CONTROLS ........................................................................................................ 11

DRIVER COMFORT .........................................................................................12

CREATE A DRIVER PROFILE ......................................................................................... 12

ADJUST DRIVER’S SEAT .................................................................................................. 12

ADJUST STEERING WHEEL ........................................................................................... 12

ADJUST MIRRORS ...............................................................................................................12

LIGHTS ................................................................................................................ 13

DRIVING..............................................................................................................14

A UNIQUE DRIVING EXPERIENCE .............................................................................. 14

DRIVING TIPS FOR MAXIMUM RANGE .....................................................................14

CRUISE CONTROL .............................................................................................................15

CHARGING ........................................................................................................ 16

PLUGGING IN .........................................................................................................................16

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE? ..........................................................................................16

NOTES ABOUT CHARGING ............................................................................................16

CHANGING CHARGE SETTINGS .................................................................................. 17

CHARGING STATUS ............................................................................................................ 17

UNDERSTANDING ENERGY USE .................................................................................17

INTERIOR SWITCHES ....................................................................................18

WIPERS AND WASHERS .................................................................................................. 18

HAZARD WARNING FLASHERS ..................................................................................18

GLOVE BOX ............................................................................................................................18

ACCESSORY CONNECTIONS ........................................................................................18

USING APPS ......................................................................................................19

CONNECTING YOUR PHONE ........................................................................................19

USING YOUR PHONE .........................................................................................................19

VOICE COMMANDS ............................................................................................................19

USING MEDIA PLAYER .................................................................................................... 20

NAVIGATING ...........................................................................................................................21

CARE AND MAINTENANCE ....................................................................... 22

CLEANING THE EXTERIOR ............................................................................................22

CLEANING THE INTERIOR ............................................................................................. 23

MAINTAINED BY TESLA ..................................................................................................24

CHECK AND REPLACE WIPER BLADES ................................................................24

TOP UP WASHER FLUID ONLY ....................................................................................24

BATTERY CARE ...................................................................................................................25

MAINTAIN PROPER TIRE PRESSURES ....................................................................26

REPLACING FUSES ............................................................................................................26

HOMELINK® ...................................................................................................... 28

SOFTWARE UPDATES ................................................................................. 29

EMERGENCY UNLOCKING .........................................................................30

OPENING EXTERIOR DOORS IF KEY DOESN’T WORK ................................. 30

OPENING INTERIOR DOORS WITH NO POWER ............................................... 30

OPENING TRUNKS WITH NO POWER .................................................................... 30

JACKING OR LIFTING ................................................................................... 31

TRANSPORTING............................................................................................. 32

INDEX ................................................................................................................. 34

For printed information describing Model S safety features and considerations (including
airbags, seat belts, child safety seats, rear facing child seats, tires, wheels, loading, and consumer
information), see the document titled “OWNER SAFETY INFORMATION,” included in your owner
documentation package.

P/N: 1016932-00-A REV: 1.00

1

OPENING DOORS

USING YOUR KEY

If your Model S is equipped with
the Tech Package option, walk
up to the driver’s door when you
have your key with you, and the
door handles extend.* Insert your
hand into the handle and pull to
open the door. Without this option,
unlock Model S with the key, then
press the handle to extend it.

Open the trunk without using the
key simply by touching the switch
located under the liftgate handle.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

NOTES:

If keyless entry doesn’t work, use your key as described on this page.

Door handles retract if you don’t use them within a minute after they
extend. Press a handle to extend it again. Door handles also retract a
minute after the last door closes, when ModelS begins moving, and when
you lock it.

TO GET IN AND DRIVE

To familiarize yourself with the key, think of it as a miniature version of
Model S, with the Tesla badge representing the front.

TRUNK

Double-click to unlock or to open/close a powered liftgate.
Single-click to stop/start the movement of a powered liftgate.

FRONT TRUNK

Click to unlock.

LOCK/UNLOCK ALL

Double-click to unlock doors (lights flash t wice and handles extend).
Single-click to lock doors and the trunks (lights flash once and handles retract).
Press and hold to lower all windows.

NOTES:

You don’t need to point the key at Model S, but you must be within operating
range (which varies depending on the strength of the key’s battery).

Radio equipment on a similar frequency can affect the key. If this happens,
move the key at least a foot away from other electronic devices (phone,
laptop, etc).

If the key doesn’t work, you may need to change its battery. Even if the key’s
battery is discharged, you can open Model S by following the procedure
described on

page 30.

From inside Model S, you can lock and unlock doors, trunks, and the
charge port using the touchscreen (see page 10).

* Door handles extend automatically only if the AUTO-PRESENT HANDLES setting is turned ON
(see page 9).

2

STARTING AND DRIVING

PARKING AND POWER OFF

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

When you sit in the driver’s seat, Model S powers on the instrument panel
and touchscreen.** The center circle on the instrument panel displays the
status of doors and the charge level (see page 4) and you can operate
all controls. To drive:

PRESS THE BRAKE

SELECT A GEAR

Pressing the brake pedal starts the car. The center circle of the instrument
panel displays the speedometer, power meter, charge level, and selected
gear (see page 4).

Select a gear to drive—all the way down for D (Drive) and all the way up
for R (Reverse).

NOTES:

If you try to shift into a gear without first pressing the brake pedal, ModelS
sounds a chime to remind you to press the brake.

If Model S can’t detect your key, the instrument panel displays the
message “Key Not Inside.” Put the key in the center console cup holder
(and away from other devices such as cell phones) where Model S can
best detect it.

Before driving Model S, adjust the steering wheel, your seat, and the
mirrors to ensure maximum comfort and safety (see page 12). And don’t
forget to fasten your seat belt!

Everything you need to know when driving Model S displays on the
instrument panel.

** If the KEEP DISPLAYS POWERED setting is turned OFF (see page 9), if the Battery power
is low, or if Model S has not been used for over 60 hours, you may experience a brief delay as the
instrument panel and touchscreen wake up from an energy-saving state.

When you finish driving, shift into P (Park) by pressing the button on
the end of the gear selector. The parking brake automatically engages
and all systems keep operating. When you leave Model S, it powers off
automatically, turning off the touchscreen and instrument panel.

Model S also powers off automatically after being in Park for 15minutes,
even if you’re sitting in the driver’s seat.

To manually power off Model S, or to control the parking
brake, touch CONTROLS > E-BRAKE & POWER OFF.

To turn the touchscreen and instrument panel back on at any time, press
the brake or touch the touchscreen.

NOTE: If you use the touchscreen to release the parking brake when in
P(Park), Model S automatically shifts into Neutral. However, when you exit
Model S, it shifts into Park. To keep Model S in Neutral after exiting, power
off Model S manually using the touchscreen.

WALK-AWAY AND DRIVE-AWAY LOCKING

If your Model S is equipped with the Tech Package option, Model S doors
and trunks can automatically lock when you walk away or when you drive,
provided these features are turned on (see page 9).

If the walk-away locking feature is turned on, Model S automatically locks
all doors (including the front and rear trunks) when you get out of the
driver’s seat and walk away from Model S, provided you have your key with
you.

If the drive-away locking feature is turned on, ModelS automatically locks
all doors and trunks whenever your driving speed reaches 5 mph. When
you stop and shift into P (Park), the doors unlock and exterior door handles
extend.

TO GET IN AND DRIVE

3

INSTRUMENT PANEL AT A GLANCE

The instrument panel changes to display information related to the current situation:

When driving (or ready to drive), the center circle displays speed, power meter, charge
level, estimated range*, and active gear.

*To change how range, touch CONTROLS > SETTINGS > UNITS & FORMAT. You can display “Ideal” or “Rated” range. Ideal is based on driving a steady 55 mph on a flat road whereas Rated is based
on metrics determined as a result of EPA testing.

Use the left steering wheel buttons to control Media
player. You can also press and roll the scroll wheel to
change what displays on the left side of the instrument
panel.

Indicator lights flash briefly
as the vehicle gets ready
to drive (see page 5).

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

When parked, the center circle displays
estimated range* and status of doors.

If you turn off Traction Control, this
message displays.

When plugged in, the instrument panel displays
charging information (see page 17).

Use the right steering wheel buttons to use voice
commands, handle telephone calls and control some
features of ModelS. You can also press and roll the
scroll wheel to customize what displays on the right
side of the instrument panel.

INSTRUMENT PANEL

4

When parked, the center circle displays charge level and
status of doors.

Pay attention to warning messages
that display in this area.

Lock/unlock status, vehicle mileage, outside temperature and
date/time display across the bottom.

INDICATOR LIGHTS

The following indicator lights flash on for a second when you press the brake to prepare for driving. They should then turn off unless the indicator light
applies to a current situation. Some indicator lights are accompanied by a message displayed on the instrument panel or on the touchscreen. If an
indicator light fails to turn on or off, contact Tesla.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

Airbag safety. If it doesn’t flash on when
preparing to drive, or if it remains lit,
contact Tesla immediately.

The driver or front passenger’s seat belt
is not fastened.

Front fog lights are on. Headlight low beams are on.

Not used in North American markets.

Parking/Side lights are on.

The parking brake is manually applied.

Headlight high beams are on.

Tire pressure warning - the pressure of
a tire is out of range. If a fault with the
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
is detected, the indicator light flashes.
For a TPMS fault, contact Tesla.

Active Air Suspension fault is
detected. Contact Tesla.

Active Air Suspension’s automatic self-
levelling disabled. The vehicle is in
Jack mode. See pages 31 and 32.

An ABS fault is detected. Contact Tesla
immediately.

A brake system fault is detected or the
brake fluid level is low. Contact Tesla
immediately.

Door, trunk, or front trunk is open.

Traction control is in use (light flashes).

INSTRUMENT PANEL

5

OVERVIEW

When set to Auto, the touchscreen
automatically changes between Day and
Night brightness depending on the ambient
lighting conditions. To manually control this
feature, touch CONTROLS > DISPLAYS.

The MAIN VIEWING AREA changes depending on the
app you’ve chosen (in this example, the Nav and Media

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

Player apps are displayed). When using some apps (such
as Nav and Web), you can zoom in and out by pinching
and expanding your index finger and thumb on the screen.

The top line displays status symbols and
provides shortcuts to Charging, HomeLink,
Driver Profiles, vehicle information (the
Tesla“T”), and Bluetooth.

Choose the app(s) you want to display in the
main viewing area:

• Tap the app’s icon to display it in the top
viewing area. If the app is already displayed,
a second tap switches it to full-screen view
(note that only some apps have a full-screen
mode).

• Drag the app’s icon directly onto the top or
bottom viewing area.

• Touch and hold the app’s icon to display
a popup that lets you choose whether to
display the app in the top or bottom of the
main viewing area.

TOUCHSCREEN

Touch CONTROLS to access all Model S
controls and settings (doors, locks, lights,
etc). See the next two pages.

6

Touch the small rectangle
to expand the window to fill
the entire main viewing area.
Touch again to display both
windows.

Touch to REVERSE the
position of the top and
bottom windows.

Climate (see page 7) and volume controls.

CLIMATE CONTROLS

The climate controls are always available at the bottom of the
touchscreen. By default, climate control is set to AUTO ON,
which maintains optimum comfort in all but the most severe
weather conditions. When you adjust the temperature, the
system automatically adjusts the heating, air conditioning, air
distribution, air circulation, and fan speed to maintain your
selected temperature. You can override these settings by
pressing AUTO ON and adjusting individual settings.

NOTE: The fan, heating, and air conditioning systems are
powered by the Battery. Therefore, prolonged use decreases
driving range.

WARNING: To avoid burns resulting from prolonged use,
individuals who have peripheral neuropathy, or whose capacity to
feel pain is limited because of diabetes, age, neurological injury,
or some other condition, should exercise caution when using the
climate control system and seat heater.

Touch RESET AUTO to change all settings back to the automatic settings
(AUTO ON).

Touch to turn the air conditioning on and off. Tur ning it off reduces cooling.
However, it reduces the power used by the Battery.

Touch to specify how air is drawn into Model S: from the outside, or
recirculated.

Touch to control where air flows. You can select multiple locations.

Touch and drag the slider to set the speed of the fan.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

TOUCHSCREEN

Driver’s seat heater*
operates at three levels from
1 (lowest) to 3 (highest).

* Seat heaters are available only if your Model S is equipped with leather seats.
** Use the SYNC option (that pops up when you touch the arrow) to set the same temperature for both the driver and passenger side at the same time.

Touch arrows to set the
temperature on the driver’s
side** from LO (63o) to HI (90o).

Windshield defroster distributes air
to the windshield and switches the
heating and fan to maximum.

ON/OFF

Rear window heater warms up the
rear window and exterior mirrors for
15 minutes, then shuts off.

Touch arrows to set the
temperature on the passenger
side** from LO (63o) to HI (90o).

Front passenger seat
heater* also operates
at three levels.

7

TOUCHSCREEN > CONTROLS

Touch CONTROLS on the bottom left corner of the
touchscreen to control and customize all main features of
Model S.

Touch to
close the
window.

Touch SETTINGS to personalize
ModelS (see next page).

Sunroof If your Model S is equipped with a sunroof, touch to adjust its position (see

Driving SUSPENSION: If your Model S is equipped with Active Air Suspension,

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

Trips/Range View and reset the trip meters that summarize miles and range.

Displays Manually control the touchscreen’s brightness, and day/night setting.

TOUCHSCREEN

E-Brake &
Power Off

8

page11).

manually raise or lower Model S. You must press the brake pedal before
you can change suspension settings. If lifting or towing, first touch VERY
HIGH, then touch JACK to disable self-leveling (see pages 31 and

30). Note that driving speed can limit the suspension options that are
available.

STEERING MODE: Adjust the amount of effort required to turn the
steering wheel. SPORT feels more responsive whereas COMFORT feels
easier to drive and park.

REGENERATIVE BRAKING: When you release the accelerator when
driving, regenerative braking slows Model S and feeds energy back to
the Battery. If set to LOW, Model S won’t slow down as quickly, but you’ll
experience less range.

TRACTION CONTROL: If you turn OFF traction control, a warning
message displays on the instrument panel. The OFF setting stays in effect
for the current drive only.

CREEP: When ON, Model S slowly moves forward when in Drive (D)
and backward in Reverse (R) when you release the brake (similar to
a conventional vehicle with an automatic transmission). Can only be
adjusted when Model S is in Park (P).

Manually control the emergency brake and the power.

WARNING: Do not use features that could distract you while driving. To ensure safe
operation of your vehicle, focus your full attention on driving.

Control
doors,
locks, and
lights (see
pages
10 and

13).

TOUCHSCREEN > CONTROLS > SETTINGS

Touch the SETTINGS tab on the CONTROLS window to adjust ModelS to suit your preferences.

Adjust settings associated with installed applications.

Create driver profiles (see page12).

Adjust how your Model S displays time (12 or 24 hour format), temperature (oF or oC),

charging units (energy or distance), range (Ideal or Rated) and distance (miles or kms).

Touch to display charge
settings (see page 17).

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

DRIVE-AWAY DOOR
LOCK

WALK-AWAY DOOR
LOCK

CHILD-PROTECTION
LOCK

AUTO-PRESENT
HANDLES

MIRROR AUTO-TILT If ON, exterior mirrors tilt downward when reversing (see page 12).

ALARM

HEADLIGHTS AFTER
EXIT

RANGE MODE If ON, ModelS conserves energy by limiting the power of the climate control

KEEP DISPLAYS
POWERED

REMOTE ACCESS

If ON, all doors automatically lock whenever you drive ModelS over 5 mph (8 km/h).

If ON, all doors automatically lock when you walk away from ModelS, carrying the key
with you.

If ON, safety locks prevent the rear doors and the liftgate from being opened from inside
ModelS.

If ON, door handles extend automatically whenever you approach ModelS carrying a
key, whether locked or unlocked.

If ON, the horn will sound if a door or the front or rear trunk is mechanically opened by
non-standard means.

If ON, headlights stay on for two minutes after you exit, or until you lock ModelS.

system. Cabin heating and cooling may be less effective, but seat heaters turn on to
compensate.

If ON, the instrument panel and touchscreen do not enter a “sleep” state when you exit
Model S. As a result, displays are instantly powered when you approach with a key, but
range is reduced by up to 8 miles per day (if unplugged). If OFF, you may experience a
brief delay as Model S wakes up.

If ON, ModelS is ready to communicate with future mobile apps used to remotely check
status and control some features.

Use HomeLink® to control RF-enabled garage doors,
gates, lights, or security systems (see page 28).

TOUCHSCREEN

9

DOOR AND TRUNK CONTROLS

Liftgate

Locking and unlocking

When sitting inside ModelS,
you can lock doors, open
the front and rear trunks,
and open the charge port
by touching CONTROLS on
the bottom left corner of the
touchscreen.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

DOORS, LOCKS, AND WINDOWS

Child protection locks

Turn on child protection locks
to prevent children inside
ModelS from opening the
rear doors or the liftgate.
On the touchscreen, touch
CONTROLS > SETTINGS.

To open the liftgate:

• Touch Trunk on
the touchscreen
CONTROLS
window, or

• Double-click the Trunk
button on the key, or

• Press the switch
located under the
liftgate’s handle.

If Model S is equipped
with a powered liftgate,
you can close it using the
touchscreen, the Trunk
button on the key, or by
pressing the button on the underside
of the liftgate (see the illustration on page11).

NOTES:

• To stop a powered liftgate when it is moving, touch Trunk on the
touchscreen CONTROLS window, press the Trunk button on the key,
or press the button on the underside of the liftgate.

• If you leave the liftgate open for more than an hour, the power closing
feature is temporarily disabled. Manually close the liftgate to restore
powered operation.

• If the liftgate senses an obstruction while closing, it automatically
opens and sounds two chimes. Remove the obstruction and try
closing it again. If it can’t close it for a second time, powered operation
is temporarily disabled. Manually close the liftgate to restore powered
operation.

10

Reset the liftgate’s opening height

You can change the height of
the powered liftgate to make
it easier to reach:

• Open the liftgate, then
lower it to the desired
opening height.

• Press and hold the button
on the underside of the
liftgate for 2 seconds until
you hear a confirmation
beep.

• Confirm that you’ve set it to the desired height by closing the liftgate,
then reopening it.

WINDOW CONTROLS

Press down on a switch
to lower the associated
window all the way down.
Window switches operate
at two levels. To lower
a window partially, hold
the switch and release
when the window is at the
desired position.

Pull a switch up to raise
the associated window.
This also operates at two
levels, as described above.

Disable rear window switches

To prevent children sitting in
the rear seats from opening
the windows, disable the
rear switches by pressing
the button shown. When
disabled, the button’s light
turns on. The windows can
still be operated using the
switches on the driver’s
door.

Sunroof

To operate the sunroof, touch CONTROLS > SUNROOF on
the touchscreen. Drag or tap on the sunroof’s slider bar, or
touch the image of the sunroof. The sunroof moves to the
selected position.

If the sunroof’s safety mechanism
detects any type of obstruction, it
won’t close. If, after removing the
obstruction, it still doesn’t close,
touch and hold down CLOSE.

Touch VENT to open the sunroof
slightly.

Drag the slider bar to the indents
to open the sunroof to the comfort
position (80% open). At this position,
wind noise is minimal. You can also
move the sunroof to the comfort
position by touching OPEN once.

Touch once to open the sunroof to
the comfort position. Touch t wice to
open it fully.

Touch anywhere on the sunroof image to stop it from moving at any time.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

DOORS, LOCKS, AND WINDOWS

11

CREATE A DRIVER PROFILE

ADJUST STEERING WHEEL

Depending on the options available on your Model S*, you may only need
to adjust Model S once. When you first adjust the driver’s seat, steering
wheel, or driver’s side mirror, the touchscreen prompts you to create a
driver profile. Your profile saves the position of the seat, steering wheel,
and driver’s side mirror, as well as many of the other preferences you
make using the Setttings screen (see page 9).

If you change the position of the steering wheel, driver’s seat, or driver’s
side mirror after you’ve saved a profile, the touchscreen prompts you
to save the new position or restore the previously saved position (other
preferences are automatically saved). To use a setting without saving or
restoring, just ignore the prompt.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

To restore the adjustments associated with a driver profile, simply
touch the driver profile icon, located to the left of the Tesla “T” on
the touchscreen status bar, and choose the driver.

You can also create a driver profile by touching CONTROLS > SETTINGS
> DRIVER PROFILES.

*In the U.S., the Driver Profile feature is available
as part of the Nappa Leather Package only.

ADJUST DRIVER’S
SEAT

1. Adjust lumbar support.

2. Adjust backrest.

3. Adjust seat (move forward and

DRIVER COMFORT

backward, and adjust height
and tilt).

12

3

Adjust the steering wheel to the
desired driving position by moving
the control on the left side of the
steering column.

ADJUST MIRRORS

Push the button associated with
the mirror you want to adjust (left
or right), then press the dial to
move the mirror to the desired
position.

Mirror auto-tilt

To improve your viewing angle
when backing up, exterior mirrors
tilt downward. You can adjust this
auto-tilt position by shifting into
Reverse (R) gear before making
the mirror adjustment.

To turn off the auto-tilt feature, touch CONTROLS > SETTINGS >
VEHICLE > MIRROR AUTO-TILT > OFF.

WARNINGS:

Do not make adjustments while driving. Doing so increases the likelihood of a collision.

Riding in a moving vehicle with the seat back reclined can result in serious injuries in a
collision, as you could slide under the lap belt or be propelled into the seat belt. Ensure
your seat back is reclined no more than 30 degrees when the vehicle is moving.

12

INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR LIGHTS

Touch CONTROLS on the bottom left corner of the touchscreen to control most of the lights. Model S also features convenience lights that
turn on and off automatically based on what you’re doing. For example, you’ll notice interior lights, marker lights, tail lights, and puddle lights
that turn on when you unlock Model S, when you open a door upon exiting, and when you shift into P (Park). Then, after a minute or two, or
when you shift into a driving gear, they turn off.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

If DOME lights are set to AUTO, interior
lights turn on when you unlock Model S,
open a door upon exiting, or shift into P
(Park). They turn off after 60 seconds,
when you lock
Model S or
when you shift
into a driving
gear.

Press the lens
on an individual
dome light to
control it manually. If you manually turn a
light on, it turns off when ModelS powers
off. If power was already off when you
turned it on, it turns off after 60 minutes.

If you set headlights to PARKING,
only the side marker lights,
parking lights, tail lights, and
license plate lights turn on.

If selected, interior lights on the door armrests turn on

whenever headlights are on.

If selected, daytime running lights operate when
driving with headlights off. In jurisdictions where
required by law, you can’t turn these off.

If selected, front fog lights operate only when
headlights are on (LED fog lights are available if your
Model S is equipped with the Tech Package).

Headlights, tail and licence plate lights automatically
turn on when driving in low lighting conditions. If you
change this setting, it reverts back to AUTO each time
Model S restarts. Push the left steering column lever to
turn on high beams.

LIGHTS

13

A UNIQUE DRIVING EXPERIENCE

DRIVING TIPS FOR MAXIMUM RANGE

When driving Model S, the following characteristics may be unlike any
other vehicle you’ve driven:

• Regenerative braking - when you take your foot off the accelerator
when driving, regenerative braking slows the vehicle and feeds energy
back to the Battery. To minimize how much the vehicle slows down,
you can use the touchscreen to set regenerative braking to LOW (see
page 8).

• If equipped with Active Air Suspension, ModelS lowers its suspension
at higher speeds to optimize aerodynamics and increase range. It also
lowers to load and unload passengers, provided all doors are closed.
When ModelS starts, you may hear the compressor as it fills the

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

system’s reservoir with air.

You can use the touchscreen to manually control the height of ModelS
(see page 8). For example, you may want to raise the suspension
to very high to improve ground clearance when driving up ramps and
over speed bumps.

IMPORTANT! Before jacking/lifting/transporting Model S, you must
disable Active Air Suspension by touching the JACK option.

• Everything you need to know when driving Model S displays on the
instrument panel. So please do not read the touchscreen while driving.

WARNING: Do not read the touchscreen while driving. Doing so increases the
likelihood of a collision.

DRIVING

The amount of energy consumed depends on your driving habits and
environmental conditions.

Here are a few tips to maximize driving range:

• Keep in mind that driving at high speeds (such as a freeway speed)
decreases range.

• Avoid frequent rapid acceleration and anticipate stops to maximize
regenerative braking.

• Instead of using the brake pedal to slow down, move your foot off the
accelerator. Whenever the vehicle is moving and your foot is off the
accelerator, regenerative braking slows the vehicle and feeds energy
back to the Battery.

• Keep tires at the recommended inflation pressures.

• Lighten your load by removing any unnecessary cargo.

• Limit the use of resources such as heating and air conditioning. Using
seat heaters to keep warm is more efficient than heating the cabin.

The power meter on the instrument panel, and the Energy app (selectable
from the apps section in the top area of the touchscreen), provide
feedback on energy usage. With this feedback, you’ll soon become familiar
with how driving habits and environmental conditions impact how much
energy you’re using.

14

CRUISE CONTROL

To operate cruise control

• Press the end of the cruise control
lever (you must be driving over 20
mph). The light on the lever turns on.

• Accelerate until you reach your
desired cruising speed.

• Briefly move the cruise
control lever up or down, then
release.

The speedometer displays the
CRUISE ON message and an
indicator shows the set speed.

Set
speed

To increase or decrease cruising speed

For 1 mph increments, push the lever up
(increase) or down (decrease) to the first
position.

For 5 mph increments, push the lever
up (increase) or down (decrease) to the
second position.

To adjust speed by 2 mph per second,
hold the lever in the up (increase) or down
(decrease) position, then release when you
reach your desired speed.

To turn o cruise control

Press the end of the cruise control lever. The light on the lever turns off.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

Driving in cruise control

You can accelerate as usual to increase
your speed, but when you release the
accelerator, Model S returns to your
set speed.

To pause and resume cruise
control

To temporarily pause cruise control, briefly
push the cruise control lever away from
you. The message on the instrument
panel turns off, but the set speed remains
displayed. To resume at the previously set
speed, briefly pull the cruise control lever
toward you.

NOTES:

Cruise control is cancelled and the set speed is cleared if you press the
brake, drive below 20 mph, or if you shift into R (Reverse), P (Park) or N
(Neutral) while driving.

When adjusting the set cruising speed, it may take several seconds for
Model S to make the adjustment.

DRIVING

15

PLUGGING IN

NOTES ABOUT CHARGING

The charge port is located on the
driver’s side of the vehicle behind a
door that forms part of the rear tail light.
With your key nearby, press and hold
the button on a Tesla charging cable
and the charge port door opens.
If the cable you are using doesn’t
have this button, touch
> CHARGE PORT on the
touchscreen (located in the DOORS
& LOCKS area as shown on pages
8and10). You can also open
it by touching the battery icon on

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

the top of the touchscreen, then
touching OPEN CHARGE PORT.

NOTE: To charge at a public charging station, attach the J1772 adapter
(supplied with your ModelS) to the station’s charging cable.

When you plug in the charging cable, a light around the charge port
pulses green during charging and the instrument panel displays charging
information (see next page).

When charging is complete, the light around the charge port stops pulsing
and the light turns solid green. Press and hold the button on the charging
cable (if applicable), then pull the cable out of the charge port. Push the
charge port door closed.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

CHARGING

Recharge rates are variable and depend on many factors including
whether your Model S is equipped with a single charger or twin chargers.
Driving distances also vary depending on your driving habits, the age
of the Battery, and environmental conditions such as extreme weather
and hilly roads. The most up-to-date information on charging and driving
distances is available at www.teslamotors.com.

16

CONTROLS

.

• Tesla strongly recommends leaving ModelS plugged in when not in
use. This maximizes the lifetime of the Battery (see page 25).

• When you plug in, a latch on the charge port holds the charging cable
in place.

• If ModelS is in any other gear when you plug it in, it automatically
shifts into Park.

• If the Battery requires heating or cooling, you may notice a delay
before charging begins. Heating or cooling starts automatically when
you plug in, and charging begins when the Battery reaches the
appropriate temperature.

• ModelS will not drive when a charging cable is attached, so there’s no
risk of driving away when plugged in.

• If you lock ModelS during charging, the charge port light does not
illuminate but the vehicle continues to charge.

• If an error occurs during charging, the light around the charge port
is red and the instrument panel or touchscreen displays information
about the error.

• When ModelS is fully charged, charging stops automatically and the
green light around the charge port stops pulsing.

• To prevent unauthorized unplugging of the charging cable, ModelS
must be unlocked or able to recognize a key before you can
disconnect the charging cable.

• To stop charging without unplugging the charging cable, touch STOP
CHARGING on the touchscreen.

• If an electrical power outage occurs, charging resumes automatically
when power is restored.

• For details about your charging connector, refer to the documentation
provided with the connector.

CHANGING CHARGE SETTINGS

CHARGING STATUS

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

The charge settings screen displays on the touchscreen whenever the
charge port door is open. You can also display it at any time by touching
the battery icon on the top of the touchscreen.

Two charge levels

• By default, ModelS
charges to the
STANDARD charge
level, which provides the
fastest charging time and
maximizes the life of the
Battery by charging it to
less than its full capacity.

• To drive as far as possible,
change the charge level
to MAX RANGE. Although
this setting charges the
Battery to full capacity,
using it frequently reduces Battery life.

If you change the charge level, Model S remembers. To change the level
for one session only, you need to manually change it back again.

Charge current

The current automatically sets to the maximum current available from the
attached charging cable, unless it was previously reduced to a lower level.

If needed, you can change the current by touching the up/down arrows.
You may want to reduce the current if you’re concerned about overloading
a domestic wiring circuit shared by other equipment. When you change the
current, ModelS remembers the location for which you changed it. So if
you subsequently charge at the same location, you don’t need to re-adjust.
Keep in mind that reducing the current increases charging time.

Charging rate per hour.

Estimated increase
in driving distance*
achieved so far in this
charging session.

* Instead of driving distance, you can change settings to display energy. Touch CONTROLS >
SETTINGS > UNITS & FORMAT.

Total driving distance* now
available (and an indication
if you are charging to Max
Range).

Current being supplied / Total current available.

Time remaining until
fully charged at the
currently selected
charge level.

Voltage being
supplied by the
charging cable.

UNDERSTANDING ENERGY USE

Touch the Energy app on the touchscreen to display a graph showing how
much energy Model S is using.

Energy

The graph visually shows projected range and energy consumption. The
projected range is based on consumption over the last tenth of a mile. You
can adjust the graph to temporarily display the projected range based on
the average amount of energy used over the past 5, 15, or 30 miles (or 10,
25, or 50 kms).

CHARGING

17

WIPERS AND WASHERS

HAZARD WARNING FLASHERS

To wipe the windshield, rotate the end of the lever away from you. You can
choose from four levels:

• 1st: Auto with low rain sensitivity.*

• 2nd: Auto with high rain sensitivity.*

• 3rd: Continuous, slow.

• 4th: Continuous, high.

For a single wipe, press and release the end of the lever.

If the wipers are set to Auto and the sensor detects no water/dirt, the
wipers do not wipe.

NOTE: When you operate the wipers, headlights automatically switch on (if

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

they are not on already).

* Model S has a rain sensor located on the inside of the windshield at the base of the interior rear
view mirror. When wipers are set to Auto, the frequency at which they wipe depends on how much
water/dirt the sensor detects. When you set wipers to the 2nd level, the sensor is more sensitive.

Windshield washers

Press and hold the end of the lever to spray
washer fluid onto the windshield. The wipers
turn on. When you release, the wipers turn
off after wiping the windshield a couple
more times.

INTERIOR SWITCHES

Press the switch located to the left of
the touchscreen to turn on the hazard
warning flashers. All turn signals flash.
Press again to turn off.

NOTE: The hazard warning flashers
operate even when the key is not in the
vehicle.

GLOVE BOX

Press the switch located to the right of
the touchscreen to open the glove box.

ACCESSORY
CONNECTIONS

Two USB ports and a power socket are located on the front of the center
console. Use a USB port to connect USB flash drives and portable audio
devices to the touchscreen, or to charge other devices. To play music from
a connected device, see page 20.

Do not connect multiple
devices using a USB hub. This
can prevent the devices from
charging or being recognized.

Power from the socket is
available whenever Model S is
powered on. This 12V power
socket is suitable for accessories
requiring up to 15A or a
maximum of 180 watts.

18

USING APPS

CONNECTING YOUR PHONE

With both the phone and the car powered on, follow these steps while
sitting inside ModelS:

1. On the touchscreen, touch the Bluetooth icon.

The touchscreen displays the Bluetooth window.

Bluetooth

2. On your phone, enable Bluetooth and set it to Discoverable.

3. On the touchscreen, touch START SEARCH.

The touchscreen searches then displays a list of all available Bluetooth
devices.

4. On the touchscreen, touch the phone to which you want to connect.

Within a few seconds, the touchscreen displays a randomly generated
number, and your phone should display the same number.

5. Check that the number on your phone matches the number on the
touchscreen. Then confirm, on your phone, that you want to pair.

When connected, the touchscreen displays the Bluetooth symbol next to
the phone name to show that the connection is active.

NOTE: The touchscreen automatically connects to the last phone that was
connected. To connect to a different phone, touch the Bluetooth icon and
choose the phone you want to connect to from the list of paired phones. If
the phone isn’t on the list, follow the above steps to add it.

USING YOUR PHONE

To make a call, touch the phone icon on the touchscreen. Then, enter the
phone number on the dialer, and touch CALL.

To receive a call, touch Answer on the touchscreen. You can also use the
right steering wheel control to handle phone calls:

• For an incoming call, roll the wheel to highlight Answer or Ignore, then
press to select.

• During a call, roll the wheel to the End, Hold, and Continue options,
then press to select.

Phone

VOICE COMMANDS

You can use voice commands to call a contact, navigate, or listen
to Internet music. Press and hold the voice button on the upper
right side of the steering wheel. When you hear the tone, speak
your command. Release the button when you finish speaking.

• To call a contact, say “Call” or “Dial,” followed by the contact’s first and/
or last name(s). For example, “Call Eric.”

• To navigate, say “Drive,” “Navigate,” or “Where is,” followed by an
address, business name, business category, or landmark. For
example, “Drive to Tesla in Menlo Park.”

• To listen to the Slacker Internet music service, say “Listen to,” or “Play,”
followed by the name of the song, album, artist or combination. To
improve voice recognition accuracy, provide multiple cues in your
command, such as artist plus song (for example, “Play Free Fallin by
Tom Petty”).

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

USING APPS

19

USING MEDIA PLAYER

SETTING UP XM RADIO

To listen to the radio and play audio files from a connected device (see
page18), touch the Media icon.

Media

If you exit Model S when playing Media Player, when you open any door
to re-enter, Media Player resumes playing where it left off. At first, the
volume is low. But when you get in and close the driver’s door, the volume
resumes to the previously set level. When you open the driver’s door to

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

exit, the volume is reduced again. When you leave Model S, Media Player
stops playing, and the touchscreen and instrument panel turn off.

MEDIA PLAYER CONTROLS

In addition to the touchscreen, you can control the Media player using the
left steering wheel controls:

• Scroll the wheel up or down to adjust volume.

• Press and release the scroll wheel to mute/unmute a radio station or
pause/play an audio file.

• Press the Previous and Next buttons to find radio stations. If an
audio file is playing, this plays the previous or next file in the

USING APPS

currently active folder, category, or playlist.

USING INTERNET RADIO

If your Model S is equipped with the Connectivity package, internet radio
services* (such as Slacker and TuneIn) have been set up for you and can
be selected using Media Player.

*NOTE: Internet radio services that are available vary based on country.

20

XM radio is a subscription-based satellite radio service available to you if
your Model S is equipped with the Sound Studio package*. To subscribe
to XM radio, you need to provide the radio ID for your touchscreen. To
view the radio ID, select the XM radio source and tune it to channel 0. The
Radio ID displays on the screen.

*NOTE: Sirius XM satellite radio service is not available in Hawaii, Alaska or any location outside of
the United States.

PLAYING AUDIO FILES FROM DEVICES

Plug a portable audio device or flash drive into either of the USB connections
located on the front of the center console. On the touchscreen, touch
MEDIA > BROWSE > MY MUSIC & DEVICES
are displayed.

To play audio files from your Bluetooth connected device, touch the
name of your device from the My Music & Devices list. Use your device
to change the track and/or use the left steering wheel controls to play the
next or previous track.

. The contents of your device

ADDING AND REMOVING FAVORITES

From the Now Playing screen that displays whenever you
play audio, touch the Favorites icon to add the song or station
to your Favorites list. A blue icon indicates that it has been
added to your Favorites. Touching the icon again removes it
from your Favorites.

To play a Favorite audio file or radio station, touch
To remove a Favorite, touch the corresponding X.

If you’re playing a radio station when you touch the Favorites icon, the
station is assigned to one of the preset buttons if an empty slot is available.
You can also assign a radio station to a preset button by touching and
holding the preset button you want to assign. You can store up to six
presets for each radio source.

BROWSE > FAVORITES

.

NAVIGATING

Navigation

If your Model S is equipped with the Tech Package option, touch the Nav icon to
display the navigation app.

To enter a destination, touch the search box and a keyboard appears. Use the
keyboard to type the destination, then touch ENTER. A list of matching destinations
are displayed, sorted by relevance and distance. Touch and drag the list to scroll up or
down. To choose a destination, touch an entry in the list or on the map. If your desired destination is not listed, touch the search bar again to change your
search information.

The touchscreen displays the route to your destination on the map and provides directions, travel time, distance, and estimated arrival time. The target
destination is marked on the map and directions are accompanied by spoken instructions. Depending on zoom level, you may not be able to see
the entire route, but as you drive, the map adjusts to show the current segment of the route. At any time during a navigation session, you can cancel
navigation or mute the spoken instructions. When a navigation route is active, the instrument panel also displays directions.

Touch the search box to display a keyboard
used to enter a specific destination. You
can also search for destinations by entering
business names, category names, etc.

Repeat the last search.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

Display a list of recent places you’ve searched
for, or navigated to.

If the results of a business you’re searching
for includes a phone number, you can press
CALL to dial the number automatically from a
Bluetooth-connected phone.

Center the map on your current location.

Zoom in and out. You can also pinch your
thumb and forefinger on the map to zoom
out or stretch to zoom in. To change the
map’s default magnification level, touch
CONTROLS > SETTINGS > APPS > MAPS
& NAVIGATION.

Switch between map and satellite views.

Turn the display of traffic on and off.

Touch and drag the map to display an area
outside of the current view.

USING APPS

21

CLEANING THE EXTERIOR

To prevent damage to the vehicle’s paint, immediately remove corrosive
substances (bird droppings, tree resin, dead insects, tar spots, road salt,
industrial fall-out, etc.). Do not wait until your vehicle is due for a complete
wash. If necessary, use denatured alcohol to remove tar spots and
stubborn grease stains then, after cleaning, immediately wash the area
with water and a mild, non-detergent soap to remove the alcohol.

Rinse the vehicle thoroughly

Before washing, flush grime and grit from the bodywork using a hose.
Flush away accumulations of mud in areas where debris easily collects
(such as wheel arches and panel seams). If salt has been used on the
highways (such as during winter months), thoroughly rinse all traces of

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

road salt from the underside of the vehicle.

Take care when removing caked-on dirt or other foreign substances to
avoid scratching the paint surface.

Hand wash with a soft cloth and mild soap

Hand wash Model S using a soft cloth and cold or lukewarm water
containing a mild, good quality car shampoo.

Rinse with clean water

After washing, rinse with clean water to prevent soap from drying on the
surfaces.

Dry thoroughly and clean exterior glass

CAUTIONS:

Do not use hot water and detergents.

In hot weather, do not wash in direct sunlight.

If using a pressure washer, maintain a distance of at least 12 inches between the
nozzle and the vehicle. Keep the nozzle moving and do not concentrate the water jet on
any one area.

Do not aim water hoses directly at window, door or hood seals, or through wheel
apertures onto brake components.

Avoid using tight-napped or rough cloths, such as washing mitts.

If washing in an automatic car wash, use “Touchless” car washes only. These car
washes must have no parts, such as brushes, that can touch Model S. Using any other
type of car wash could cause damage that is not covered by the warranty.

Do not use chemical based wheel cleaners—these can damage the finish of the wheel.

After washing and rinsing, dry thoroughly with a chamois.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Clean windows and mirrors using an automotive glass cleaner. Do not
scrape, or use any abrasive cleaning fluid on glass or mirrored surfaces.

22

CLEANING THE INTERIOR

Frequently inspect and clean the interior to maintain its appearance and to
prevent premature wear. If possible, immediately wipe up spills and remove
marks. For general cleaning, wipe interior surfaces using a soft cloth (such
as microfiber) dampened with a mixture of warm water and mild non­detergent cleaner (test all cleaners on a concealed area before use). To
avoid streaks, dry immediately with a soft lint-free cloth.

Interior glass

Do not scrape, or use any abrasive cleaning fluid on glass or mirrored
surfaces. This can damage the reflective surface of the mirror and the
heating elements in the rear window.

Airbag covers

Do not allow any substance to enter an airbag cover. This could affect
correct operation.

Dashboard and plastic surfaces

Do not polish the upper surfaces of the dashboard. Polished surfaces are
reflective and may interfere with your driving view.

Leather

Leather is prone to dye-transfer which can cause discoloration, particularly
on light colored leather. White and tan leather is coated with an anti­soiling treatment. Wipe spills as soon as possible using a soft cloth
moistened with warm water and non-detergent soap. Wipe gently in a
circular motion. Then wipe dry using a soft, lint-free cloth. Using detergents
or commercially available leather cleaners and conditioners is not
recommended because they can discolor or dry out the leather.

Carpets

Avoid over-wetting carpets. For heavily soiled areas, use a diluted
upholstery cleaner.

Seat belts

Extend the belts to wipe. Do not use any type of detergent or chemical
cleaning agent. Allow the belts to dry naturally while extended, preferably
away from direct sunlight.

Do not allow water, cleaners, or fabric from cloths to enter a seat belt
mechanism. This could affect operation of the seat belt.

Touchscreen and instrument panel

Clean the touchscreen and instrument panel using a soft lint-free damp
cloth or a cleaning wipe specifically designed to clean monitors and
displays. Do not use glass cleaner or other cleaning solutions.

Chrome and metal surfaces

Polish, abrasive cleaners, or hard cloths can damage the finish on chrome
and metal surfaces.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

23

MAINTAINED BY TESLA

Regular maintenance is the key to ensuring the continued reliability and
efficiency of your Model S. Take Model S to Tesla every:

12,500 MILES, OR 12 MONTHS

whichever comes first

Maintenance and service must be performed by Tesla-certified technicians.
Damages or failures caused by maintenance or repairs performed by non­Tesla certified technicians are not covered under the warranty.

CHECK AND REPLACE WIPER BLADES

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

Periodically check and clean
the edge of the wiper blade
and check the rubber for
cracks, splits and roughness.
If damaged, replace the blade
immediately to prevent damage
to the glass:

• Lift the wiper arm away from
the windshield.

• Depress the locking tab
while sliding the blade out
of the arm. You may need to tilt the blade toward you to slide the blade
out of its position.

• Position the new blade on the wiper arm and slide toward the hooked
end of the arm until it locks into place.

• Position the wiper arm with the blade against the windshield.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

NOTE: For optimum performance, Tesla recommends replacing wiper
blades at least once a year.

TOP UP WASHER FLUID ONLY

Model S has only one reservoir into which you can add fluid. This is
the washer fluid reservoir under the front trunk. When the level is low, a
message displays on the instrument panel. Fill until the fluid is visible just
below the filler neck.

Under no circumstances do you need to inspect or top up other fluid
reservoirs. Two additional fluid reservoirs are located next to the washer
fluid, but underneath the maintenance access panel. In the unlikely event
that you see a message on the instrument panel that one of these fluid
levels is low, stop Model S as soon as safe to do so, and contact Tesla.

NOTE: Adding fluid to the Battery coolant reservoir voids your warranty.

24

BATTERY CARE

Temperature limits

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

Your Model S Battery is one of the most sophisticated battery systems
in the world. The most important way to preserve the Battery is to
LEAVE YOUR MODEL S PLUGGED IN when you’re not using it. This
is particularly important if you are not planning to drive your ModelS for
several weeks. When plugged in, ModelS wakes up when needed to
automatically maintain a charge level that maximizes the lifetime of the
Battery.

There is no advantage to waiting until the Battery’s level is low before
charging. In fact, the Battery performs best when charged regularly.

Never allow the Battery to fully discharge

Even when you’re not driving Model S, the Battery discharges very slowly
to power the onboard electronics. On average, the Battery discharges at a
rate of 1% per day. Situations can arise in which you must leave ModelS
unplugged for an extended period of time (for example, at an airport when
travelling). In these situations, keep the 1% in mind to ensure that you
leave the Battery with a sufficient charge level. For example, over a two­week period (14 days), the Battery discharges by approximately 14%.

Discharging the Battery to 0% may permanently damage the Battery.
To protect against a complete discharge, Model S enters a low-power
consumption mode when the charge level drops to 5%. In this mode, the
Battery stops supporting the onboard electronics to slow the discharge rate
to approximately 4% per month. Once this low-power consumption mode is
active, it’s important to plug in Model S within two months to avoid Battery
damage.

NOTE: When the low-power consumption mode is active, the auxiliary 12V
battery is no longer being charged and can completely discharge within
12 hours. In the unlikely event this occurs, you may need to “jump start” or
replace the 12V battery before you can charge. In this situation, contact
Tesla.

Do not expose Model S to ambient temperatures above 140°F (60°C) or
below -22°F (-30°C) for more than 24 hours at a time.

WARNING: The Battery has no parts that an owner, or a non-Tesla authorized
technician, can service. Under no circumstances should you open or tamper with the
Battery. Always contact Tesla Motors to arrange for Battery servicing.

CAUTION: If the Battery’s charge level falls to 0%, you must plug it in. If you fail to do so
within a month, you can permanently damage the Battery. This damage is not covered
by the warranty. If the Battery falls to a critically low level for an extended period of time,
it may not be possible to charge or use the vehicle without jump starting or replacing
the 12V battery. If you are unable to charge the vehicle, contact Tesla.

At the end of its service life, recycle the Battery. Contact Tesla for recycling information.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

25

MAINTAIN PROPER TIRE PRESSURES

REPLACING FUSES

Keep tires inflated to the pressure shown on your Model S Tire and
Loading Information label located on the driver’s door pillar (even if it
differs from the pressure printed on the tire itself).

Tire pressures are

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

NOTE: If, when starting ModelS, the tire pressure warning flashes for a
minute, then remains on, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
system may be malfunctioning. Contact Tesla.

printed on this label

The tire pressure warning on the instrument panel
alerts you if one or more tires is under-inflated. Stop
and check pressures as soon as possible. The warning
turns off when you drive above 25mph (40 km/h) for
more than 10 minutes with tires at the recommended
pressures.

Three fuse boxes are located under the maintenance access panel,
located in the front trunk.

To remove the
maintenance panel:

• Pull the rear
edge of the panel
upward to release
the five clips that
secure the panel.

• Maneuver the
access panel
toward the
windshield to
remove.

IMPORTANT! The
maintenance access
panel protects the front
trunk from water. When
re-attaching, make sure
it is fully seated.

To remove the fuse
box covers, press the
plastic tabs on either
side to release.

Identify the fuse
protecting the affected
circuit and pull to remove. A break in the wire inside the fuse indicates that
the fuse has blown.

Do not replace fuses in fuse box 1 and do not remove or replace relays. If
one of these fails, contact Tesla.

321

26

F26

F24

F22

F20

15

15

15

5

F23

F21

F19

5

F11

5

5

F12

F10

5

F2

5

5

OPEN

F3

F1

5

5

F15

F13

5

20

15

F14

F6

F4

15

OPEN

20

F5

10

OPEN

F27

F25

F17

5

5

20

F18

F16

F8

25

15

20

F9

F7

Fuse box 1 (must be replaced by Tesla)

1 ACC sense, radio, USB hub 15 Electric parking prake
2 Not used 16 Not used
3 Vanity lights, rear view mirror 17 Electric parking brake
4 Not used 18 Not used
5 Seat heater (driver seat) 19 In-car sensor for HVAC
6 Base audio amplifier 20 Cabin air heater logic
7 Seat heater (passenger seat) 21 Battery coolant pump 1
8 Premium audio amplifier 22 Inlet actuators

9 Sunroof 23 Powertrain coolant pump
10 Passive safety restraints 24 Cabin climate control
11 Steering column controls 25 Battery coolant pump 2

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

12 Drive power sense 26 Not used
13 Wiper park 27 Thermal controller
14 Drive inverter

F47

10

30

F46

5

F38

25

5

F37

F29

25

10

F28

5 10

20

F50

F48

5

F42

F40

25

30

F41

F39

5

F33

F31

10

25

OPEN

OPEN

F32

F30

OPEN

30

F54

F52

5

F44

25

5

5

F45

F43

F35

15

20

15

F36

F34

open

open

25

30

30

F59 F58 F57 F56 F55

Fuse box 2

28 Window lift motor (right rear) 44 Charger (charge port)
29 Contactor Power 45 Passive entry (horns)
30 Window lift motor (right front) 46 Body controls (group 2)
31 Not used 47 Glove Box Light
32 Door controls (right side) 48 Body controls (group 1)
33 Not used 49 Instrument panel

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

34 Not used 50 Siren, intrusion/tilt sensor
35 12V power socket 51 Touchscreen
36 Air suspension 52 Heated rear window

F53

F51

F49

37 Window lift motor (left rear) 53 Battery management system
38 Driver's Seat Memory 54 Not used
39 Window lift motor (left front) 55 Left front electric seat
40 Rear door handles 56 Right front electric seat
41 Door controls (left side) 57 Cabin fan
42 Powered liftgate 58 Not used
43 Permanent power sensor (brake switch) 59 Not used

40

40

40

F76

F79

30

5

F75

F78

5

20

F72 F73F71

F77

F74

20

25

Fuse box 3

71 Condenser fan (left) 76 ABS
72 Condenser fan (right) 77 Stability control
73 Vacuum pump 78 Headlights - high/low beam
74 12V drive rail (cabin) 79 Lighting - exterior/interior
75 Power steering 19 Not used

27

USING HOMELINK®

If your Model S is equipped with the Tech Package option, you

can program the HomeLink® Universal Transceiver to operate up
to three garage doors, gates, lights, or security systems that can
transmit Radio Frequency (RF) signals.

To program HomeLink:

1. Park in front of the device you want to program, and have the device’s
remote control ready.

2. Touch CONTROLS > SETTINGS > HOMELINK on the touchscreen.

3. Touch the ENTER NAME box, then use the on-screen keyboard to

enter a name for your HomeLink device.

4. Touch CREATE HOMELINK.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Once programmed, you can operate the device by touching its
corresponding HomeLink icon on the touchscreen’s status bar.

HomeLink remembers the location of your programmed devices. When
you approach a known location, the HomeLink control on the touchscreen

HOMELINK®

automatically drops down. When you drive away, it disappears.

HomeLink

28

SOFTWARE UPDATES

RELEASE NOTES

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

Model S updates its software wirelessly, providing new features throughout
your term of ownership. The first time you enter ModelS after an update is
made available, a scheduling window displays on the touchscreen.

IMPORTANT! A software update takes up to two hours to complete, and
ModelS must be in Park (P) when the new software is installed.

Touch the arrows
to change the
installation time
(if necessary).
Then touch SET
FOR THIS TIME
to schedule the
installation.

Touch to
immediately start
the two-hour
installation process.

When a software update is available, a yellow clock icon appears in the
status bar. Once scheduled, the clock icon becomes white.

NOTES:

You can reschedule the installation any time before it begins by touching
the clock icon in the touchscreen’s status bar to display the software
update window.

If ModelS is charging when the software update begins, the charging
process stops and resumes when the update is complete. If you are driving
ModelS when the update is scheduled, the update is cancelled.

If the touchscreen displays a message indicating that a software update
was not completed, contact Tesla.

Immediately after a new version of software is installed, the touchscreen
displays Release Notes describing the new or changed features.

You can display Release Notes any time by touching the Tesla “T” at the
top center of the touchscreen, and then touching the Release Notes link.

Touch to display
Release Notes.

SOFTWARE UPDATES

29

OPENING EXTERIOR DOORS IF KEY DOESN’T
WORK

If the vehicle doesn’t unlock
when you walk up to it, or
when you press the unlock
button on your key, it is
possible that the key’s battery
is dead. If this is the case, you
can unlock the passenger door
by positioning the key near
the base of the passenger
side windshield wiper, as
shown. Then press the front
passenger door handle to open

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

Model S.

OPENING INTERIOR DOORS WITH NO POWER

If ModelS has no electrical power, open doors as described here:

• Front doors open as usual by fully extending the interior door handles.

• To open rear doors, fold back
the edge of the carpet below
the rear seats to expose the
mechanical release cable,
as shown here. Pull the
mechanical release cable
toward the center.

OPENING TRUNKS WITH NO POWER

If ModelS has no electrical power, open trunks as described here:

• To open the front trunk, pull
the release lever located
below the glove box.

Then push down on the
secondary catch lever on the
front trunk and lift to open.
You may need to push the
hood down slightly to release
the pressure against the
secondary catch.

• To open the rear liftgate,
pull the cover from the
mechanical release located
on the underside of the
liftgate, next to the trunk’s
interior light. Then pull the
mechanical release.

EMERGENCY UNLOCKING

30

JACKING OR LIFTING

Follow the steps below to lift Model S. Ensure that any non-Tesla repair
facility is aware of these lifting points.

1. Position Model S centrally between the lift posts.

2. If ModelS is equipped with Active Air Suspension, it automatically

self-levels, even when power is off. YOU MUST use the touchscreen as
follows to disable it:

• Touch CONTROLS on the bottom left corner of the
touchscreen.

• Press the brake pedal, then touch VERY HIGH to raise
the suspension to its maximum height.*

• Touch JACK** to disable self leveling.

* See page 32 for an illustration of the above suspension settings.
**

JACK mode automatically cancels if you drive over 4.5 mph (7 km/h).

3. Position the lift arm pads under the body rails at the locations illustrated
on this page. DO NOT position the lift arm pads under the Battery.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

4. Adjust the height and position of the lift arm pads to ensure they are
correctly located.

5. With assistance, raise the lift, ensuring the lift arm pads remain in their
correct position.

WARNINGS:

If your ModelS has Active Air Suspension, it automatically self-levels even when power
is off. You MUST disable this system by engaging JACK mode before lifting. If you do
not disable Active Air Suspension, ModelS can attempt to self-level, causing serious
damage, bodily injury, or death.

Never raise ModelS when the charging cable is connected, even if charging is not in
progress.

Do not work on an incorrectly supported vehicle. Doing so can cause serious damage,
bodily injury, or death.

DO NOT LIFT FROM UNDER THE BATTERY!

DOING SO CAN CAUSE DAMAGE.

CAUTIONS:

Place the lift pads under the body rails—DO NOT lift from under the Battery. The
locations illustrated are the only approved lifting points for ModelS. Lifting at any other
points can cause damage not covered by the warranty.

Use a suitable rubber or wood pad to protect the body from surface damage.

JACKING OR LIFTING

31

TRANSPORTING MODEL S

Use a flatbed trailer only. Do not TOW! To avoid damage, follow
instructions exactly as described.

Touch VERY
HIGH to

maximize
height.

Touch JACK
to disable
self-leveling.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

Prepare Model S for pulling

1. Press the brake pedal and shift into Neutral (N). This disengages the
parking brake (be sure to follow step 3 to keep Model S in Neutral).

2. If your Model S is equipped with Active Air Suspension, it automatically
self-levels, even when power is off. YOU MUST press the brake pedal,
then use the touchscreen to set the suspension as follows:

Touch CONTROLS on the bottom left corner of the
touchscreen.

TRANSPORTING

32

When JACK
mode is active,
ModelS alerts
you by displaying
this indicator light
on the instrument
panel, along with
a message telling
you that active
suspension is
disabled.

NOTE: JACK
mode cancels
automatically
when ModelS is
driven over 4.5
mph (7km/h).

3. To keep the gear in Neutral, power Model S off manually by touching
CONTROLS > E-BRAKE & POWER OFF > POWER OFF. If you don’t

power off manually, Model S automatically shifts into Park when you
open the door.

Connect the tow chain

Attach the tow chains using the
large hole on each of the rear lower
suspension arms.

Place a 2 inch x 4 inch piece of
wood between the tow chains
and the underbody as illustrated.
Adjust the location of this wood as
necessary to protect the underbody.

Pull onto the trailer and secure the wheels

Secure wheels using chocks
and tie-down straps:

• Ensure metal parts on

tie-down straps don’t contact
painted surfaces or the face
of the wheels.

• Don’t place straps over body

panels or through wheels.

CAUTIONS:

You must transport ModelS using a flatbed trailer or transporter. NEVER TOW!

Follow procedures exactly as described. Serious damage can occur if you don’t. Any
damage caused by transporting is not covered by the warranty.

If the electrical system isn’t working, you can’t put Model S into Neutral and the parking
brake won’t disengage. If this is the case, use wheeled dollies or skid pads under the
rear wheels.

Active Air Suspension automatically levels ModelS, even when power is off. If you don’t
put ModelS in JACK mode, Active Air Suspension automatically attempts to self-level,
which may cause ModelS to become loose during transport, resulting in damage or
injury.

Before pulling, make sure the wood is secure and properly positioned between the
underbody and the tow chain to reduce pressure from the chain.

Attaching straps to the chassis, suspension, or other parts of the body can cause
damage.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

TRANSPORTING

33

INDEX

A

ABS warning 5
accessories, connecting 18
active air suspension

suspension

airbag

warning light 5
air circulation 7
air conditioning 7
air distribution 7
air suspension

JACK mode 8

warning lights 5
alarm 9
app, displaying 6

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

audio files

playing 20
auto-present handles

how they work 2

setting for 9
auto-tilt mirrors

enabling 9

how they work 12

B

Battery

care of 25

coolant 24

range 7

temperature limits 25
battery icon 17

INDEX

brakes

fluid 24
brake warning 5

C

cabin temperature 7
carpets, cleaning 23
car washes 22

. Seeair

charging

charge port 16
charge port door, opening 10
connectors 16
current 17
settings 17

status 17
child protection locks 10
cleaning

exterior 22

interior 23
climate controls 7
creep 8
cruise control 15
current 17
customizing 9

D

defrosting 7
destinations, entering 21
doors

emergency unlocking 30

locking and unlocking 10

mechanical release, interior 30

warning light 5
drive-away locking 3
driving

energy consumed when 14

how to 3

to maximize range 14

E

e-brake 3
emergency flashers 18
energy consumption 14
energy used, displaying 17
exterior cleaning 22

F

fan speed, setting 7
favorites, adding and removing 20
flashers 18

, 16

front trunk

opening manually 30
unlocking using key 2
unlocking using touchscreen 10

fuses

accessing 26
list of 27

G

garage doors, opening 9, 28
gears, selecting 3
glove box, opening 18

H

hazard lights 18
headlights

after exit, setting 9
controlling 13

indicator light 5
heating 7
High Power Wall Connector 16
HomeLink 28

I

indicator lights 4, 5
instrument panel 4

cleaning 23
interior cleaning 23

J

jacking 31
JACK mode 32

K

keep displays powered

setting for 9
key

not detected 3

using 2

L

leather, cleaning 23
liftgate

opening and closing 10

setting height of 11
lifting 31
lights

controlling 13

exterior 13

interior 13
locking

drive-away 3

using key 2

walk-away 3

M

maintenance 24
maps 21
max range charge 17
mirrors

adjustments 12

auto-tilt setting 9
mobile apps 9
Mobile Connector 16

N

navigating 21
Neutral gear, staying in 32

P

parking 3

brake warning light 5

parking brake 3
phone 19

Bluetooth connection 19

connecting 19

using 19
plugging in 16
power consumption 14
powered liftgate 10
power meter 4
power off 3

34

power on 3
power socket 18
preferences 9
pressure washer 22
pulling 32
push brake message 3

R

radio

over the internet 20
using Media Player 20

XM, setting up 20
radio station presets 20
rain sensor 18
range

climate control, effect on 7

maximizing 14

max range charge setting 17
range mode, setting 9
rear windows

disbling switches 11

heating 7
regenerative braking

how it works 14
releasing notes, displaying 29
remote access, setting 9

S

seat

adjustment for drivers 12

lumbar support 12
seat belt warning 5
seat heaters 7
settings, vehicle 9
software updates 29
speedometer 4
spoken commands 19
standard charge 17
starting 3
steering wheel

adjust position of 12

buttons 4
sunroof controls 11

suspension

JACK mode 32

SYNC temperature 7

T

temperature, adjusting 7
temperature, units 9
time, format of 9
tire pressures

label for 26
warning light 5

touchscreen

brightness 6
cleaning 23
controls window 8
overview of 6

settings window 9
tow chain, connecting 33
towing 32
traction control

message when turned on 4

warning light 5
transporting 32
trunk

opening and closing 10

using the key 2

won’t close 10

, 26

U

units 9
unlocking

doors 10

trunks 10

using key 2

using touchscreen 10

when key doesn’t work 30
USB

connecting devices 18

playing audio files 20
using touchscreen 10

V

ventilation 7
voice commands 19
volume control 6

W

walk-away locking

how it works 3

setting for 9
warning flashers 18
warning lights 5
washer fluid, topping up 24
washers 18
washing

exterior 22

interior 23
windows

controlling 11

disabling rear switches 11

sunroof controls 11
windshield washers 18
windshield wipers 18
wipers 18

replacing blades 24

X

XM radio setup 20

SEE ALSO

For printed information describing
Model S safety features and
considerations (including airbags, seat
belts, child safety seats, rear facing
child seats, tires, wheels, loading,
and consumer information), see the
document titled “OWNER SAFETY
INFORMATION,” included in your
owner documentation package.

A QUICK GUIDE FOR OWNERS

INDEX

35

3500 Deer Creek Road

Palo Alto, CA 94304